This is my first time on your site. I have applied to study a masters program in Athens. I wanted to ask about the cost of living. I have read that the average wage is around 800 euros a month. I am going to be living on savings as I don't expect to find a job there. What is a comfortable amount to live off per month? I was thinking about 1000 euros per month but I wanted to hear your thoughts. Thank you!
With 1000 EUR you can expect to live ok, provided that you find a home that you will not have to pay more than 350EUR rent.
Life can be easier and more smooth in the East suberbs, with nice cost of living
It depends on what standard of living you want. If you're on your own you can get an undesirable apartment in an undesirable area for about 350. Living costs are very high though. Heating the house in winter, unless it has natural gas (fisiko aereo) will cost loads. Supermarket shopping can be expensive as well.
Make sure you get an apartment where the landlord does not live in the apartment building. Greek landlord are generally extremely awkward people who have never worked a day in their lives and just got the building handed to them by parents. They'll be knocking at your door making your life difficult every week.
Also, be aware that Athens, apart from the wealthiest areas, is an absolute dump. The beaches, even the private ones, are not nice places to be either unless you like trash and cigarette butts.
After living here for so long I can honestly say Greece is a place for vacations, not for living. Most expats I meet here last a year before becoming extremely disillusioned with the place. Think very carefully.
Matthew, I don't live in Greece but have a one bedroom apartment in Kastella (piraeus) that needs renovations. I have been thinking of renting out in exchange for renovations? If you want to discuss this further email me at (moderated)
Honestly, don't do it. I guarantee you will regret it. It's a dump, the people are extremely unpleasant, nationalistic and arrogant and you will struggle to do even the most simple things! I've lived here for 5 years - anyone who tells you it's anything but awful is either Greek or just knows vacations on the islands.
Yikes.... sounds like you're not a "happy" expat. Sorry that you feel this way.... Indeed, need to rethink the idea...
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